Onyx and Obsidian Optical Properties

Onyx

Obsidian

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous

1.2 Pleochroism

Not Available

AbsentWalter Schumann

1.3 Dispersion

NA0.01

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Translucent, Opaque, Translucent to opaque

Transparent, Translucent

1.5 Refractive Index

1.530-1.5431.450-1.550

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Trigonal

Amorphous

1.8 Birefringence

Not AvailableNot Available

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

OpaqueHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli

Transparent

Onyx and Obsidian Optic Character

Onyx and Obsidian optical properties play a significant role while distinguishing these gemstones from each other. These properties are influenced by the Onyx and Obsidian Physical Properties like crystallographic symmetry, pleochroism,etc. in the crystal. Some of the optical properties are refractive index, luster, optic character, pleochroism etc. Prominent among these is Onyx and Obsidian optic character. You might have noticed your gemologist rotating the gemstone while testing it. Rotating a gemstone along its optic axis helps in determining its optic character.

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Onyx and Obsidian Transparency

Similar to their colors, Onyx and Obsidian transparency can also be used as criteria for their primary identification. Although transparency cannot be the only criteria for gemstone identification, it can efficiently used in gemstone grading. Talking about their transparency, Onyx is Opaque, Translucent and Translucent to opaque while Onyx is Opaque, Translucent and Translucent to opaque in appearance.